The Federal Government has announced a seven-week roadmap for the proposed National Policing Bill. The Presidential Working Group invited Nigerians to submit memoranda and policy proposals. Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila chairs the group.
Nigeria has debated state policing for decades. The current centralized system faces criticism over response times and local knowledge gaps. Governors across multiple states have demanded constitutional amendments to create state-controlled police forces. Critics warn that state police could become tools of political persecution. Supporters argue that federal policing has failed to curb rising insecurity. The proposed bill aims to establish a comprehensive legal and operational framework. It seeks to balance local autonomy with national standards.
The seven-week consultation window opened this week. Citizens, civil society groups, and security experts can submit input. The Working Group will review proposals before drafting the final bill. The legislation must pass through the National Assembly. It requires broad political consensus to amend relevant constitutional provisions. Security analysts say the timeline is ambitious but necessary. Nigerians are watching whether this initiative will break the long stalemate on police reform.
